The narrator reflects how every human heart is a keeper of secrets. He has lost a friend, a neighbor, and his love. He shall carry his secret to the grave.
Jerry goes to an alehouse, keeping to himself and trying to blend in with the scenery. He puzzles over the meaning of the message on the trip back to Tellson’s Bank. He is to give Jarvis Lorry’s answer to the night watchman, who will in turn pass it to the higher authorities.
Jarvis Lorry’s mind is often consumed by his work at the bank. However, presently, he is focused on his current business. He is dreaming about reawakening a dead man. After digging up the man, he turns to dust. As a beautiful morning dawns, Lorry comments on being buried alive for eighteen years.